FAMILY ROADTRIP: STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, CO

Steamboat, Colorado is typically thought of as an ideal winter skiing destination with their trademarked champagne powder and almost 3,000 acres of ski terrain with a family friendly atmosphere, but it’s equally fun in the summer too. The resort recently invested $200 million in upgrades and improvements. By the 2023-2024 ski season they will have the longest gondola in the US at 3.16 miles with only a 13 minute ride up and altitude change of 3,668 ft packed with gorgeous views. We’ve been to Steamboat a few times and can’t recommend it enough, especially if you’re looking for a western town vibe. Also, if you’re affected by high altitudes, the base at Steamboat (6,900ft) compared to Breckenridge (9,600ft) and Vail (8,100ft) leads to fewer headaches and fatigue. There’s always portable oxygen too!

Travel 

We’ve flown into Yampa Valley Regional Airport (HDN) only 28 miles outside of Steamboat and also Denver International Airport (DEN) and driven 3.5 hours to Steamboat. Both options have benefits. If driving, definitely book an all-wheel drive SUV. There are a few mountain passes to go through, all boasting stunning mountain views. Heads up: there’s a stretch of 48 miles past privately owned ranches without options for bathroom or snack stops.

Lodging 

Ski in/ski out is so beneficial when skiing with kids. Organizing and putting on the gear alone can nearly ruin the day so staying as close as possible to the lifts or gondolas is a huge benefit. It also allows for easy breaks during the day if someone is tired or needs a snack. In the summer, staying further out is a bit easier and less costly. Check to see if your rental offers a shuttle service to and from the gondola base and Old Town Square to avoid needing a rental car. I’d also recommend choosing a location with a pool and/or hot tub. Swimming outside, especially in the winter while snow falls, can’t be beat. 

Winter Activities

Summer Activities

Year Round Activities

If you’re interested in outdoor adventures, this is an ideal spot with gorgeous views to make incredible family memories!

Lyndsey Battaglia
Lyndsey was born and raised in New Orleans which instilled a deep passion for architecture, history, and FOOD. She and her husband James are proud graduates of UW-Madison. Go Badgers! They live in the Madison area with their 3 active children. Lyndsey is a freelance writer and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner. When not working, she can be found running her kids around to swimming, ballet, basketball, and skiing. They all love new adventures, travel, cooking, being outdoors, reading, biking, and trying to keep up with their new puppy.

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